Worcester Warriors are delighted to announce that back row star Kai Horstmann has committed his future to the club by signing a new three-year deal.

Horstmann, who has played 96 senior games for Warriors, has become a key part of the pack at Warriors in recent seasons and has now agreed a new deal that will extend his stay at Sixways Stadium until 2012.

The 27-year-old joined Warriors from Harlequins in May 2005 and has captained the side in the absence of Pat Sanderson.

Horstmann was awarded the Player's Player-of-the-Year at the club's annual awards at the end of the 2005/06 season. He repeated that feat at the end of the 2006/07 season when he was named Player of the Year.

His performances have also thrust him into the international arena and he received a call-up to the England Saxons for the Churchill Cup tour of North America in July 2006. He was also a member of the IRB World Sevens Series squad in 2003/2004 season.

"I am absolutely delighted that Kai has committed himself to the Warriors for another three years," said Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock.

"Kai is reaching the peak of his powers at 27-years-old and I'm sure over the next three years he will continue to develop as a player and as a team leader.

"He is hugely respected in the playing ranks of the club by the coaching staff and by his fellow players. He is an intelligent athlete who really is Mr Dependable.

"It was obvious during out negotiations that Kai has a genuine bond with the club and that his motivation is to see the club move forward and become one of the best in England. Kai believes we have the systems in place to achieve that goal and we share his belief."

Horstmann revealed his decision to remain at Warriors had been a simple one to make.

"I'm really pleased to sign. I'm settled and have enjoyed my career at Sixways and look forward to a bright future and continuing to help the club achieve its big ambitions," he said.

"I want to be a part of something special and feel that is what is happening at Warriors. I've seen the club come through some dramatic experiences in the past and in the Guinness Premiership, but now feel we are ready to move on into the top half and challenge the top sides.

"I feel I have become a better player at Warriors. I've improved many aspects of my game and really enjoy working with the current coaching set-up who I feel can push me even further. The structure is there for me to progress.

"My aim remains to play a big part at Warriors and also push my international claims. I've big aspirations in the game and want to play for England. That is something I feel I can achieve with Warriors.

"From the start I've told the coaching staff I wanted to stay. I can't see myself playing for any other team and couldn't be happier to sign the new deal."

With thanks to www.warriors.co.uk